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Mailbag: Who’s In Line For Final Roster Spots?

by
Rob Phillips
,
Bryan Broaddus
&
Dallas Cowboys Mailbag

Since some of the competition is close, don't you think position flexibility and special teams will determine the final roster spots? Also, who might fill those last 3 to 5 spots? I see a few rookies on the final 53. - ROBIN FULCE/PANHANDLE, TX

Rob: This year’s team has so much depth in some areas that I’m as intrigued about who gets to the practice squad as who gets one of those final roster spots. You mentioned rookies. Did linebacker Luke Gifford do enough in 10 days of camp and one preseason game to make the team? I think so. Cornerback Mike Jackson, a fifth-round pick, has missed time with injury. Where does he stand against an improving player such as Donovan Olumba? Does receiver Cedrick Wilson (technically not a rookie) have to beat out Devin Smith for a spot? Still one game left to make an impression.

Bryan: The last couple of spots are going to be for guys that were hurt that you want to carry: Luke Gifford and Connor McGovern. I see Joe Jackson making this team, but I don’t see Mike Jackson or Mike Weber.

Did Joe Thomas just change the coaches’ conversation about playing time? He looked like a starter out there in the battle of Texas. - J.M. SMITH / WALDORF, MD

Rob: Sean Lee, when healthy, will get his snaps. But when we talk about the outstanding talent at linebacker, it’s not just about Lee, Jaylon Smith and Leighton Vander Esch. Thomas has started games from Green Bay in the past. A foot injury sidelined him here a few games last season, but he’s capable of stepping in if needed.

Bryan: Please read my Scout’s Notebook from the game the other night. If I were a scout on another team I’d try and trade for him. You know he’s going to play more because he’s a backup to Lee.